To make a very modern baked clam, you can take a traditional baked clam recipe and add some contemporary twists to elevate the flavors and presentation. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious and modern baked clam dish:
Ingredients:
- Fresh clams (littlenecks or cherrystones)
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Lemon zest
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat while you prepare the clams.
Clean the clams: Rinse the clams under cold water to remove any sand or debris. Scrub the shells gently with a brush to ensure they are clean.
Steam the clams: In a large pot, add about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the clams in the pot, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes or until they open. Discard any clams that don't open.
Remove clam meat: Once the clams have cooled slightly, carefully remove the clam meat from the shells. Be sure to save the shells as you'll need them later.
Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Assemble the clams: Take each clam shell and place a piece of clam meat back into it. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over each clam, pressing it down gently to create a generous topping.
Bake the clams: Arrange the assembled clams on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake them in the preheated oven for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy.
Presentation: For a modern twist, you can serve the baked clams on a stylish platter or individual plates, garnished with additional chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Optional enhancements: Consider adding some modern elements to the dish, such as a drizzle of high-quality balsamic reduction, a sprinkle of microgreens, or a few drops of chili oil for an extra kick.
This modern baked clam recipe combines the traditional flavors of baked clams with contemporary touches, creating an appealing and delicious dish that's sure to impress your guests. Enjoy your very modern baked clams!